Sarasota Police Officers Injured While Subduing Violent Patient

SARASOTA, FL – Sarasota Police officers were injured Thursday night, March 22, while trying to subdue a man believed to be delirious from taking the drug known as spice.

At about 7 p.m., Sarasota Police officers responded to the 1700 block of Gore Court, Sarasota, to assist Sarasota County Emergency Services will an ill and violent patient.

When officers arrived, Chad Washington, who had an active felony warrant for failure to appear, opened the door, saw the officers and attempted to slam the door in their faces. Officers pushed open the door and Washington reportedly punched one of the officers in the face and punched another officer in the arm.

At the time, Washington was under the influence of a drug that caused an "excited delirium" state of mind, according to Sarasota Police.

Washington was extremely uncooperative, actively punching and kicking officers, police said. In addition, Washington bit an officer's upper thigh.

After several minutes of fighting with Washington, additional officers arrived on the scene and were able to subdue him.

Washington was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and then taken to Sarasota County Jail.

During their investigation, officers learned Washington was in possession of MDMA and believe Washington was under the influence of the synthetic drug known as spice.

"We want this to serve as a reminder to our community that no one should take illegal drugs, including spice,” said Police Chief Bernadette DiPino. "Spice is a synthetic drug made in a laboratory that can cause individuals to be violent and disorientated. If you see someone acting this way, please call law enforcement immediately."

Washington, of 5827 5th St., Bradenton, has been charged with three counts of felony battery on a law enforcement officer and felony possession of a controlled substance.

The officer who was punched in the face and bitten was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital and released. The other officer who was punched in the arm was treated and released at the scene by EMS.

Image via Sarasota Police